New consolidated animal control bylaw given first reading

Sylvan Lake Town Council on Monday gave first reading to a new animal control bylaw that would see existing dog and cat bylaws consolidated into one.

The move to do so has been made by many other municipalities around the province, notes a report presented to council. In researching the topic, administration looked at similar bylaws of ten comparable municipalities.

Councillors were told that the bylaw is very much a work in progress, and directed administration to seek feedback from the public on the bylaw before bringing it back for second and third readings.

The bylaw, if approved, would see fines increased for infractions incurred by pet owners. Administration said education and awareness on both the bylaw and pet owners’ responsibilities would be the aim of a three-month implementation plan.

Information on the bylaw will be distributed among local pet stores, through the Town’s website and at the Town’s Fall Information Fair.